Therapeutic riding is based on the beneficial movement of the horse. The three-dimensional, rhythmical motion of the horse stimulates and works the muscles of the rider. The horse's gait is almost identical to the human gait and because a horse's walking stride is similar in length and cadence to a human's stride, the pelvic movement mimics the action of walking.

Methods

The riding program is based on the principles of therapeutic riding recognized by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA). Focusing on ability rather than disability, the program compliments the treatment of physically, mentally and emotionally disabled individuals. It follows established techniques for teaching and recognized standards for safety. Classes are held in an arena, either indoor or outdoor (weather permitting). Lessons are conducted in small groups and last 45 minutes. In addition to the instructor, the rider is assisted by a leader for the horse and up to two sidewalkers for each client. Games, music, horse care and competitions supplement exercises and riding basics.

Benefits

From the beginning, riders learn balance, coordination and self-assurance while receiving therapeutic muscle stimulation. Horseback riding strengthens muscles and improves concentration. Discipline and self-respect grow as the rider's mastery of the sport grows. Riding also expands and reinforces speech.

Autistic children make connections and show improvement in their communication skills and ability to concentrate. Children confined to a wheelchair experience a new freedom. The unsure child's confidence builds and often the depression caused by chronic pain is eased. Increased range of motion and muscle tone, improved motor skills better balance, posture and coordination. Dramatic improvements in spatial awareness, self-awareness and self-discipline, and most importantly...increased self-esteem have all been seen as the result of equine therapy. Riding sessions challenge the child mentally as well as physically. Children gain the ability to trust again and improve their ability to interact with others. Children with learning disabilities perform better in school. Best of all, horseback riding is a 'normal' activity that provides therapy and recreation outside of a hospital or school setting. The horse becomes a non-judgmental friend and ally working toward goals while having fun.

Clients

This is just a small segment of our special needs riders.......

 Mentally Impaired

 Visual and Hearing Impaired

 Down Syndrome

 Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

 Muscular Dystrophy (MD)

 Cerebral Palsy (CP)

 Spina Bifida

 Autistic

 Learning Disabled

 Cystic Fibrosis

 Cancer

 Brain Injuries

 Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder

Events

EquiVenture provides many events outside of our regularly scheduled classes at the barn. We have schools, Girl/Boy Scouts, churches, etc out to the barn for a field trip learning experience. We go to schools, churches, civic groups, etc either as a speaker or with an animal (sometimes both!). We provide a site for multiple organizations fulfillment of their 'Community Service' requirements.

Our biggest event every year is the Boy Scout Outdoor Adventure' where we provide a recreational riding experience for 800 special needs students from Howard and the surrounding counties. The 4H Horse and Pony Club and area High Schools work hard to help us with this.